ALERT: Paris Shooting 4-20-17

Working with United's Corporate Security representatives, our MEC Safety, Health and Security Committee has prepared the following message regarding the recent events in Paris, France:

At approximately 9:30 pm (local time) on Thursday, April 20th, French law enforcement closed the Champs Elysees to traffic and pedestrians in response to a shooting incident which involved police officers and one known assailant. According to reports the assailant was killed, and unfortunately, one police officer died as well. Multiple security vehicles are on scene as a major police operation is underway. At this time, French law enforcement does not believe there are any additional shooters or assailants.

French prosecutors have opened a terrorism investigation and ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attack. With the upcoming French Presidential Election being held next week, French authorities have deployed an additional 50,000 troops to ensure safety and security of the election polls. France is at a heightened state of emergency following several terrorist incidents over the last two years.

Crew hotels are located just over a mile from the incident. You are encouraged to heed all law enforcement guidance, and avoid the Champs Elysees area until the area receives an “all clear” from authorities. Streets from the Arc de Triomphe down to Champs-Elysees-Clemenceau metro station are closed. Currently, metro rail services have been suspended at George V, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Champs-Elysees-Clemenceau metro stations. They are also closed to foot traffic. The U.S. Embassy in Paris has issued a security message in response to the incident, which reads in part as follows:

“The U.S. Embassy in Paris informs U.S. citizens that there has been a police action on the Champs Elysees in Paris. One police officer was killed along with the assailant. Police have locked down the area. U.S. citizens are advised to avoid the area, heed instructions of local authorities, and monitor local media for updates. We strongly encourage U.S. citizens in France to directly contact concerned family members in the U.S. to advise them of your safety.

U.S. citizens are encouraged to monitor media and local information sources and factor updated information into personal travel plans and activities. U.S. citizens may monitor English-language French media at the following: